Local News

Open Letter on Media Coverage of Fatalities

The Media Workers Association of Grenada (MWAG) has noted concerns raised by sections of the public regarding the way the bodies of two persons who died in Tuesday’s vehicular accident have been portrayed.

Many of the persons, who have expressed concern with the coverage, have highlighted what they say is the inappropriate way in which the bodies were displayed.

MWAG acknowledges that this has been a matter that keeps coming up over the years and believes there is merit in some of the concerns raised by the public.

We are therefore calling on media houses to be responsible in their coverage in general but in their coverage of fatalities in particular.

MWAG is aware that media houses here do not necessarily have documented code of ethics that they subscribe and adhere to. However, we believe ethics in the media are just as important as being fair accurate and balanced on issues.

We therefore urge that media houses exercise sound ethical judgment, especially so as not to cause undue stress and burden to persons who have lost loved ones in circumstances that warrant media coverage.

Even if we have a responsibility to provide coverage, in small societies like ours there is a greater need to exercise discretion on reporting sensitive and traumatic issues.

Thank you in anticipation of your kind consideration of this request.

Sincerely

RAWLE TITUS (MR.)

President

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